Who painted Child Reaching for a Fishbowl?

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl was painted by Nishimura Shigenaga in 1724.

Where can I see Child Reaching for a Fishbowl?

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Child Reaching for a Fishbowl?

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl

Nishimura Shigenaga , 1724

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl is a print by the Baroque artist Nishimura Shigenaga. It dates from 1724 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Child Reaching for a Fishbowl is an early hand-colored print that incorporates urushi-e, a technique combining black pigment with a glue overlay to achieve a lacquer-like sheen.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a child in a red kimono reaching for a fishbowl placed on a low table covered in gold brocade. The bowl contains water with tiny black fish, while the child's gesture conveys curiosity or longing.

Technique & Style

The urushi-e technique is prominently featured, with glue applied over black ink areas to create a lustrous effect. Additional luxury details include metal filings on the woman's (presumably the child's companion, though not described in action) kimono, embellishing parasols, a fan, and musical instruments.

History & Provenance

Created during the Edo period, the print's specific origins and ownership history are not detailed here. It is now part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

This work reflects the Edo period's aesthetic values, emphasizing luxury and subtle texture through innovative printing techniques like urushi-e.

Legacy

As part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's Edo-period print collection, it contributes to the understanding and appreciation of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock printing's technical and artistic evolution.